Life's Victories: Sandy Campbell

Can your life change overnight by simply taking a shower? For me, that answer is yes! I went from being a 40-year-old, hardworking, mom of a two-year-old, to being broken and in tears because of a spot I found on my right breast. The difficulty came when my insurance dropped me between my mammogram and the biopsy. The mammogram showed I had a mass but I had no way to find out if it was cancer. That’s when a friend told me about Libby’s Legacy and I saw my first glimmer of hope. Robin, the founder of Libby’s Legacy, got me in for a biopsy, and then walked me through the treatment process after the results showed cancer. She took the time to remove a lot of the “what ifs” and fears that overwhelmed me. Before I knew it, she had me on my road to treatment, encouraging me every step of the way. I thought, “If a perfect stranger believes I am capable of getting through this, then by golly I’m getting through this!” I then reached out to my friend, Linnette, who took the lead of my “Rack Pack” cancer team, and I haven’t looked back since.

I am now 42 years old and have successfully completed the bilateral mastectomy and, as of this past July, all of my chemotherapy. I can gladly say I have gotten past every bump, hurdle, and crater that’s been placed in my path. However, I could not have done it without the help of my fantastic “Rack Pack” team, the UF Health doctors and staff, and Robin-the amazing gal with an amazing organization that inspired me.

Being at the end of treatment, I can proudly say I love my once-bald head. It reminds me of the strength of my son as he traveled the cancer journey right next to me. It reflects my strength and willingness to overcome every crazy emotion and feeling the human body can produce. Most importantly, it has taught me to appreciate life, friends, and family.